§ MR. HUNT (Shropshire, Ludlow)To ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the fact that only ink made in Ireland is used in Irish Government Departments, he will explain why this practice obtains in Irish Departments and why a similar rule is not followed in the supply of articles for other Government Departments.
(Answered by Mr. Hobhouse.) The practice in regard to the supply of ink to public offices in Ireland, which is correctly stated by the hon. Member, has been in force for many years. I understand, however, that the prices paid are substantially those ruling in the open market. It would not be desirable to extend this rule to the supply of articles generally to Government Departments, whether in Great Britain or Ireland.